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Victor Petkov
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Minnesota push Lakers on the verge of elimination after 116-113 win in Game 4
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Los Angeles must win next clash to keep their season alive

Down by 12 points late in the third quarter, Minnesota stormed back for a thrilling 116–113 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night, seizing a commanding 3–1 lead in their first-round playoff series.

Jaden McDaniels was the late-game hero, converting a three-point play with 39.5 seconds left to put the Wolves ahead, then immediately stealing the inbounds pass from LeBron James. From there, Anthony Edwards — who exploded for 43 points — drew a crucial foul on James and calmly sank both free throws with 10 seconds remaining.

The Lakers still had a final chance, but after tight defense bottled up both James and Luka Doncic on the perimeter, the ball found Austin Reaves in the corner. His tying three-point attempt rimmed out, sending the Wolves and their crowd into celebration.

Julius Randle chipped in 25 points and McDaniels added 16 points and 11 rebounds for Minnesota, who showed poise and toughness down the stretch.

“It’s been a hallmark of this team in the second half of the season: There’s been no panic,” said Wolves coach Chris Finch.

Doncic, battling back from a stomach bug that hampered him in Game 3, scored 38 points but struggled late, going just 1-for-6 in the fourth quarter. James posted 27 points and 12 rebounds for his 144th career playoff double-double, passing Wilt Chamberlain for third all-time, but he went scoreless in the final frame.

The Lakers now face a must-win Game 5 at home on Wednesday to keep their season alive.